A superhero mask-wearing thief abandoned an attempted robbery when he was confronted by a shop worker wielding an electric fan.

The armed robber walked into Roslin Stores in Aberdeen wearing an Iron Man mask at around 7.20pm on Tuesday.

He pointed a weapon at a member of staff but fled the Urquhart Road shop when the 44-year-old swung a corded fan at him.

Detective sergeant Martyn Tomson said: "The man responsible has been described as approximately 5ft 10in tall with a slim build.

"He was wearing a superhero mask, a two tone light and dark blue hooded top, dark jeans and black trainers with distinctive white soles.

"We are appealing for anyone who was in the area at the time and has any information to come forward.

"Anyone with information can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous."